Xbox backward compatibility arrives on PC with new features

Microsoft has announced Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC, bringing classic original Xbox games to Windows PCs and supported handhelds. The program is starting with four games and gives players another way to access older Xbox titles outside console hardware.

The first supported games are BLiNX: The Time Sweeper, Conker: Live and Reloaded, Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge and Fuzion Frenzy. Each game is playable through the Xbox on PC app in supported regions.

The early release begins with a small group of original Xbox games rather than a large library. Microsoft is using these first titles to test backward compatibility across PC and handheld devices.

The lineup covers platforming, action, aerial combat and party play. BLiNX and Conker bring back character-led Xbox games, while Crimson Skies and Fuzion Frenzy add multiplayer-friendly options.

Players can buy the supported games on PC, but some users will not need to purchase them again. Digital licenses already owned on Xbox console carry over to PC and handheld devices for these supported titles.

The games are also included with Xbox Game Pass plans. Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming are part of the rollout, so supported games can be played across console, cloud, PC and handheld devices when the account has access.

Microsoft is adding PC-focused settings while keeping the original gameplay intact. Players can adjust resolution upscaling, VSync, fullscreen and windowed modes, anisotropic filtering and anti-aliasing.

Resolution upscaling can go up to 4x on supported hardware. The games also include language and audio settings, giving PC players more control than the original Xbox versions offered.

Achievements are one of the biggest additions planned for the program. Microsoft will add achievements to select original Xbox games on both console and PC later this year.

The first four preview games will receive achievement support in the coming months. That gives longtime Xbox players a new reason to revisit older releases that launched before achievements became standard.

Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC requires Windows 11 and access through the Xbox on PC app. Microsoft lists the minimum requirements as an Intel Core i3-8100 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200-class CPU, 8GB of RAM and supported modern graphics hardware.

The launch is still an early release, so the library is limited for now. Microsoft plans to bring more classic Xbox games to PC over time.